THE FOWLING PIECE. 155 



force than a greater length, yet I prefer a barrel somewhat longer, 

 as it is pleasanter to load, and the aim may be much better taken 

 with it : yet, for my own choice, I never would exceed thirty 

 inches. I would not recommend a very light barrel, not from 

 any fear of its bursting, since, if a gun is kept clean, there if 

 not the least danger^ supposing it to be properly loaded ; but on 

 account of the recoil, which will always be much greater than 

 in a stout barrel. 



At first sight, it may be asked how it happens that a long 

 eighteen-pounder carries farther than a shorter cannon ? To 

 which, it may be answered, that it is possible, an increase of 

 length might be added with advantage to the longest eighteen- 

 pounder in the service ; since, on comparison, taking into con- 

 sideration the difference of the caliber, a fowling piece barrel 

 twenty-two inches in length is proportionably longer than any 

 cannon whatever. 



If the bore or caliber of the fowling piece be made extremely 

 wide, it will require a greater charge, and will of course admit of 

 a greater length of barrel. 



